Aid – Mental therapy and rehabilitation center design challenge , Seoul / Republik Korea

 

UNI competitions - UNIEGIS NETWORK Private Limited, New Delhi

 

NEEDS FOR MENTAL HEALTH AND CARE

A significant proportion of the population is affected by some mental or intellectual disorder. 

 

The disorders are characterised by abnormal thoughts, emotions, perceptions, behaviour and relationship with other people. 

 

Widespread recognition of these intellectual disorders has led to the development of safe spaces for accommodation, therapy and treatment of this affected populace. 

 

People with mental illness require care and shelter, along with support in education and employment, so that they can become a part of society. 

 

Can we create a safe and nurturing environment for these populations?

 

NATURE AS A MEDIUM FOR BETTER HEALING 

Institutes that are built for psychiatric patients are built with a high level of amenity and forethought. Spending time in nature is one of the most effective ways of helping with common mental disorders. Outdoor activities have the potential to contribute to the physical, emotional and psychological well-being of humans. Biomimetic architecture works on the principle of imitating the systems operating in nature, not just in aesthetics but in the construction of the structure.

 

It is an effective way of creating sustainable environments that contribute positively to people. Nature has always been able to create a nurturing environment for all its inhabitants, the same way institutes intend to work for their patients. Can imitation of natural habitats ensure the creation of a calm, stress-free environment that is free of manmade interventions and judgement? Through architecture, can we provide a clean slate for people to start their journey towards recovery and a normalised way of living?

 

CAN BIOMIMETIC SPACES ACT AS HEALING AGENTS DURING REHABILITATION?

Intellectually disabled people are at their core, humans, and have similar social needs that can be fulfilled by creating a supportive environment for all people going through similar experiences. 

 

 

The design of the centre must be inspired by biomimetic architecture principles. Natural systems must be used in the healing spaces part of the centre. The layout of spaces must enable easy wayfinding and navigation in and around the centre.  

 

The centre will be an independent institute that will not include elaborate hospital amenities. It will act as a safe space for inhabiting patients and treating people with temporary intellectual disabilities. Safety, security and visibility over the institute will be a design priority. 

 

Minimum eligible age for participation is 18 years.

There is no restriction to the degree or design disciplines to participate in the challenge.

Participation in the competition can happen in a team as well as an individual.

There is no restriction to the number of members who can participate in a team.

The challenge is open worldwide for anyone to participate.

 

21 March 2022, 4:00 PM GMT+01:00 – Regular registration ends

22 March 2022, 4:00 PM GMT+01:00 – Submission ends

06 April 2022, 5:00 PM GMT+02:00 – Shortlisted entries announced

12 April 2022, 5:00 PM GMT+02:00 – Jury evaluation starts

06 May 2022, 5:00 PM GMT+02:00 – Jury evaluation ends

07 May 2022, 5:00 PM GMT+02:00 – Public voting ends

19 May 2022, 5:00 PM GMT+02:00 – Result announcement